"Why Occupy The Super Bowl? A Hoosier's Point Of View, Who Happens To Live In Boston"

I hereby re-affirm, that I have been a passionate supporter of the Occupy Movement all along.  Old Revolutionaries don't fade away.   We just sort of go underground.... in a mainstream kind of way.  

Watching this new baby movement, caused more than a few of us to surface again.  We recognized the passion for a cause, and also the common mistakes made.  We felt a compulsion to give the benefit of our hard fought experiences, even as we knew they would be labeled ancient.  It was hard to take for a generation of our proportions.  Till we actually had to say to ourselves, that it had been already two generations past.  We still couldn't keep our mouths shut, or keep from showing up though.   I saw the likes of those from "Crosby, Stills, & Nash" to Abbie Hoffman, just chomping at the bit to join the current day Proletariats.  It was a gas, it was energizing.   It was finding our way back to something we were really good at.

So now we are many months past the infant stages and cutting teeth so to speak, on newfound power. The toddling gathering, endeared itself to many.  The media was kind, the season was Summer, and hanging out singing protests in the park, was sweetly nostaligic.   Not to say that giant steps were not being made at the same time.  New laws, new governing ways, that actually were the primitive Democracy that is the United States.  

Appropriately, it was birthed and nurtured in the very city of it's natural enemy.  Where the diversity of the locals, was like a loving Nanny to it's charge.  A charge born of anger, that did not make for an easy adoption.  But the baby movement grew on us all and for some became beloved enough to protect. Stretching and pushing the boundaries a little at a time or all at once, just like a teenager.  They were led to believe they could just keep pushing.  Till like a strict parent, the opposing views decided it was time to teach the teen, just  who was in charge.  As if they'd gotten caught after curfew, and admonished sternly not to repeat their crime.  Like any young adult, the facts of life came crashing down on them....and now the true signs of maturity are emerging.  

I spent the better part of today witnessing the latest event in Occupy history.  A valiant effort by yet another loyal faction of this army defending it's territory.  A territory that is the land of our leaders and those who make our laws.  Occupy D.C. was everything it could and should be today, and like a proud parent, a moment of praise for a job well done, is in order.  For children thrive on routine and laws; but they grow to their brightest potential when praised.  Something a too strict parent will often forget.  If you beat down their spirit too much; they may turn on you and resent you forever.  Better to listen, respect the individual and remember when we were once young and full of passion.  We also thought we had the answers to change the world.  In many ways we really did...including setting a precedent for taking to the streets in protest.

A beautiful young videographer for Occupy D.C. named "Nate", held us all spellbound today, with his live lens, for over thirteen hours.  A phenomena that I still marvel at, much more than my younger counterparts.  We never had the advantage of seeing anything on television that wasn't censored in some way when were organizing long ago.  We had communication networks all the same; but nothing as instantly in your face.  The advantage of truly having the "Whole World Watching", is also the most dangerous threat to the ones who wish they'd just disappear.  The people that can be united in mere minutes these days, scares the pants off those that wish to control us all.  There is no real controlling the internet, unless they turn it off.  

Beware though, of those who hold us in their grip while we fly across the ether.  They are already in collusion with our foes after all.  It's no small coincidence, that both Yahoo and Google executives, have been listed in recent years on the roster at Bohemian Grove.  No conspiracy theory here...just facts.  Here's a link to one of the stories pertaining to the Bohemian Grove agenda this last Summer.   Not many will come up when you search, and they can be easily labeled as "conspiracy"; but don't buy that hype any longer please.

http://famous-conspiracy-theories-websites.blogspot.com/2011/09/bohemian-grove-2011-ends-illuminati.html

What? Do you think the enemy doesn't have War Camps?  Tell me then, why the Bohemian Grove is blacked out on Google Earth?  Politics makes strange bed fellows, and our media and communication elite, are the worst prostitutes always.  I think even the newly naive protesters have begun to figure this out.  Though the internet is their friend, it's not always "friends with benefits".  Better to bypass the internet highway at times and instead utilize the underground highway of person to person transmission.  In other words, don't leave a trail for your enemy.  Enlist your supporters in the communities you inhabit and support them; as was suggested at the General Assembly in McPherson Square today.  

The movement lives and breathes with the compassionate support of it's admirers.  Admirers who show allegiance because they can respect and support your causes.  Especially when your causes are their cares.  The newfound maturity of the Occupy Movement, realized in no uncertain terms today, that they hadn't done enough to show care for the community they were inhabiting.  If they had reached out more, maybe more would have joined them, in numbers that make the best statement.  Like our society today, we showed up on the internet; but not face to face.

So now for the next big date in Occupy history, Occupy Super Bowl.  To many, especially the die hard sports fans, the audacity is more than they can stand.  To belittle what has to be the biggest national "Man" day in our country, is like a personal insult.  The majority of articles I could find on the subject, were mostly sports writers condemning it as blasphemy.  I couldn't let this moment in my home town's history, lose it's true meaning to ignorant explanations.  

The movement in Indiana is as grass roots as it gets.  I won't deny there's been a definite presence by the unions in their guidance; but when you understand the local dynamics, it makes perfect sense.  This area was home to many of the original unions in the manufacturing sector.  When Union wasn't a dirty word; but rather the reason to be proud that you could secure your future as a worker.  Allowing many to realize the "American Dream" in the best way.  It bridged the gap somewhat, between the "haves" and the "have nots", more than any other contribution in our society.   It allowed the Middle Class to grow and thrive as much as the GI Benefits had done for the World War II generation who chose to make their leap with education that was subsidized.  Not everyone is meant or destined for the academic route.  So what do you do with a whole other segment of society that is just as deserving?  

Every society is multi-level this way.  It's just that the most successful ones accept to address this, instead of waiting for anger and resentment to breed violence and revolt by the masses.  Even the elite used to agree to this principle of prosperity for all.  Begrudgingly maybe by some, but still recognizing the security it afforded them as well.  That's why Unions had government support for so long.  The workers were happier and more productive for their job security, and the employers benefited and still built fortunes because of it.  

When did this all go wrong?  When Greed became more important than people.  Wether it was greed by those who infiltrated unions for the power and illegal gains of crooked organizers, or the greed of employers who would no longer be threatened.  Enlisting lawmakers to allow them to take their businesses out of the country and out of the grips of unions that had become greedy.  No longer just protecting the worker's rights; but jeopardizing them instead.  

And then there were no jobs.  Only the military was hiring.  While the rich got richer for cheap labor and our children were robbed of any realistic future.  The institutions of "Higher Learning" cashed in our dilemma in the bargain.  Assuring students and their parents everywhere, that all it would take to conquer this, was their costly degrees to nowhere.  The colleges are just as culpable in the state of things today as any elitist target known as the "1 percent".  The very reason you see so many young people in this movement.  Not even multiple degrees will buy you a job these days, especially when you have the lawmakers determined to make us suffer, and blame the present political leader for it all.  

So how do you stand up to such formidable odds?  What did they expect they were breeding, but contempt?  No different from all the evil dictators around the world they point their fingers at and depose with their agendas of domination.  Designed to give them more accumulated power and wealth, even as the rest of us are left grieving for the sons and daughters who were sacrificed.  When did we ever envision that we would be at war continuously?  We didn't, but the ones who prosper from war knew it, promoted it, and now scare us with new enemies that in reality they have made, not us.

Here's a speech by John F. Kennedy that is a chilling prophecy of what greed could do.  Coming from one who was born among the elite, and knew that greed could not be counted on to do the right thing.  That to question and protest was not only our right but the right thing to do.

Tomorrow will be the next moment in history for the Occupy Movement, Occupy Super Bowl.  As I reminded someone today; it's not about the football game, but a bigger game to be lost.  To know Hoosiers, is to know that we are most proud of our friendliness and fairness.  Watching brave Hoosiers this past Summer running to help victims of the State Fair tragedy, instead of running away, made me proud beyond words.  That's what we do.  We don't run from battle; but we don't like starting them either.  

You can find a heated political debate in Indiana; but we also are known for supporting both sides in the name of fairness.  For many years Hoosiers were known to elect governors and senators of one persuasion, while also putting mayors in office with the alternate perspective, to lead our largest metropolis and the capital of our state.  Maybe it has to do with some of our Quaker heritage, or maybe it comes from being people who are also known to be good at growing things.  

The people who will stand up tomorrow will have a purpose they champion, because they feel personally obligated to stand up for all.  They are ashamed of the local GOP lawmakers who would try and forfeit them and all workers, by using Indiana as a precedent for jeopardizing workers rights all over our country.  Which is exactly what no politician is willing to talk about, especially those running for president.

Though there will be those who are angry and have every right to be, it really is not meant to be a violent protest.  Anymore than all the brave people I witnessed today in McPherson Square.  They are exercising their right, they are fed up, and they are brave enough to wish for change.  Why would we find fault with them, just because they were given a divine opportunity to advertise their case?  The Super Bowl will go on all the same.  Expensive ads will still be played, to the tune of an average 3.5 million each.  Is it any wonder some would find this a decadent display in such hard times for so many?  

So don't hate my beloved fellow Hoosiers on this Super Bowl Sunday for wanting a small piece of the spotlight for what they believe in.  They believe they are fighting an even bigger game and in the end for all of us.  

And don't hate me for not talking more about my present home town's glorious Patriots.  Of course I will root for the home team....but it will be in two entirely different arenas.  Because the Super Bowl game will have an ending tomorrow evening...but hopefully the more important game will make us all winners.

"Life, Death, & A Helping Hand"

It's been over a month since I did this.  It's been a hard cold month emotionally; but also filled with love.  .

The man who married my mother 41 years ago, lost a valiant battle with a disease still known to too many.  The one that can devastate us and sometimes steal our last breath.  Lung cancer and all cancers, are still an unpredictable menace regardless of all our advancements.  I watched this monster inside him, not only steal his life away; but also my poor, sweet Mom's  It's diffucult to soothe and console from a 1,000 miles away.  I had a vacation planned for this Summer; but that of course was deleted in the aftermath of a crazy car accident that left me out of service for 3 months.  He was trying to hold on and I was too, as we looked forward to my trip home at Thanksgiving.  But in the middle of a scary night, where my 83 year old mother was forced to take him to the hospital, fate changed everything and no one was ready for "goodbyes".  

So I spent a day in agony and torment 1.000 miles away.  Listening to tears and sobbing from my mother and daughter who stayed by his side.  I got the first flight I could and made a trip to home two weeks early.  They had just recieved the news that the deal on their house they had tried to sell, had just fallen through.  I think it was more than he could stand, thinking of my Mom left with a house and alone.  You see, he was 11 years younger than her.  He took care of everything for her.  She even had to learn how to take the medicines he would always lay out for her.  He also had walked the small dog that was theirs for the last nine years.  She still waits for him and won't let anyone take her harness off of her.  

It was a sad and pathetic scene to see my mother who had just lost her soulmate.  She still sleeps in his shirts.  She made me sleep in her bed the first night, as she just couldn't stand the loss.  I didn't sleep well myself; but I had to do it for her.  I had to do alot of things for her, and in a short time.  Including identifying the body...something that just had to be done..and I was the most logical choice.  I have seen death in many stages after 20 years in healthcare.  It's just not the same though when it's someone you know, even for the most seasoned veteran.  So I had my moment to say goodbye, and was grateful for a most peaceful and serene face.  It didn't matter if it was a makeup trick of the mortician; it was how I needed to see him that last time.  

Then my mother wants to show me where their stone will be.  This is a large cemetary in Indianapolis, my hometown.  Where they have multiple options for that tribute to your final resting place.  They had chosen it together and loved this little rock garden surrounded by trees.  Passing by an old friend and neighbor, where we laid rocks telling of our visit.  The rituals of life and death are many, and I visited them all this month.

On a happier note, I was elated to spend time with my only daughter, who is blooming in love all around her.  Re-connected with a young love, who found her again 10 years later, and at just the right time.  He still had a picture of her in his wallet all those years.  While she explored men who never really appreciated her, and thought there was no relief in sight.  So that's how life is; it has it's way with you when it feels like it.  We are then forced to do things like confront our fears and conquer the moment.  If you don't rise to the challenge, a life changing consequence is also sometimes our fate.  

Is it really that simple?  Does someone, something, really pull the strings?  I believe that Quantum Physics is real and that the Law Of Attraction rule also applies; but is there another plan that cancels out all our hopes and dreams, no matter how dilligent we seek them?  My mother asked me many times in the last few weeks; where do you think he is?  My mother was never really a dilligent religious soul.  She took us to church and we attended parochial school for about half our elementary education.  She chose the school and church because they were literally right acroos the street from our house, and she felt good with the people there.  But life makes you jaded with it's experiences sometimes and with more questions than answers as time goes by.  Till the end is closer than ever and we all want to believe in our salvation.  

My personal beliefs are multi-cultural and complex, and change with my own experiences.  How do I soothe this poor grieving woman with esoteric and existentialism now?  I tell her I believe he is surrounded by love.  Because I believe we do have something waiting to reflect on our lives and with guidance and resolution of lessons learned.  Maybe more like school than heaven; but without all the pain we took in our past incarnation.  I also believe that if our energy is still so drawn to this plane and the people left behind, we do stick around for a little while.  My mother had several moments of feeling that presence in the first week.  Starting with a sensation that someone was following her out of the hospital the day she left her husband there.  There was a key that needed to be found and she had searched thru his pants to no avail.  She finally spoke out to him and asked him to help her.  When she checked the pocket again, the key was there.  The next week she recieved an offer for her house that looks to finally be reliable.  Divine intervention?  Who can really say?

So this week I boarded a flight to home again to celebrate Thanksgiving.  I made a beautiful full course meal with all the trimmings.  We laughed and looked at old pictures and teased the young couple about the upcoming nuptials and the eventually spoiled oppspring.  My daughter now has a new affinity for all things "Baby", as we did the traditional shopping trip.  She's almost 29 and hearing the proverbial "Biological Clock" most loudly it would seem.  She never before would coo over tiny boots or the variety of baby carriers.  A new future looms in the mist on her horizon, and she seems to feel it and embrace it these days.  Life goes on.  One way or another.  When we least expect it.  Without regard always for our plans.  Revealing in it's own way, that there is a plan that we can't see.  We are forced to play the game in the meantime, naive and unaware of what's really to come.  Till we've done all we were meant to do in this story, and then are sent home to learn for at least a brief time, who we really are and how we all fit in.  

Here's an account in timeline form that I found a couple of years ago.  I don't say that it is anything but possible re-telling of other ancient stories of our beginnings and designs.  I do find some answers though that fit, as my perceptions have adjusted with knowledge not found in churches.  Especially not these days.  Do I think there was a scheme to control us with stories that were altered to suit those who wished control? Most definitely, there's just too many flaws and tears in the veil of wonder we call the Bible.  

I personally witness the amazing workings of the human body every day in my profession.  I take ultrasound pictures and measurements of the heart and compile a report for the Cardiologists to review.  I take approximately 70 digital clips for each patient I see.  When you see what we are made of and how intricately the design was concieved that everything should work together, it is humbling.  All this did not just happen.  Though I had a patient recently who desperately wants to believe that everything is made up of chance; because her recent diagnosis of cancer, had her questioning her own finality.  Personally, I can't deny there is a grand design and a creator beyond our meager imaginations.  It's that very thing that gives me the most hope actually.  For as I have told many a patient as I let them peak inside at their hearts.  If someone or something is that grand and in control; I'm alright with that.

Here's the story of the"Helping Hand" for your review.  Just a more than small encounter with someone who wanted to share....something.  In a time where so much seems surreal and out of control, it does bring questions of a design that we're not priveleged to.  Full of theory and speculation; but with just enough that is familiar and profound to make you wonder.

Here's the first line in this conversation:

"Every so often, as per the directives of the Law of our Creator, a brief window of opportunity opens, whereby a select handful of our Family are required to make communication with our subjects, and offer you the chance to ask us any questions you would like answered. "

http://home.comcast.net/~readingnews/Hidden_Hand.html

             

Where Are The Songwriters For The Occupy Protests?

It's a raw weather day in blustery Bean Town today.  When wearing warmth and weatherproof is a must.  Makes you walk a little faster to get to that cozy cave, while the rain and brutal winds push you down the street.  And yet...I think to myself...I at least know I have a warm retreat waiting.  Which makes me think of all those camping out presently in the Occupy Boston location not so far away.  People who may not know tonight a complete feeling of warmth in their bones.  It is humbling.  It is thought provoking.  It is not going away...and we should all be thinking gratefully of these kinds of sacrifices happening all over our land, while we live the good life in our four walls wherever that may be.  

A small thing that came to me this week, was also the one that has haunted me and must be shared.  A very sweet tweet I saw, from a young woman obviously in rapture of the present day protests.  She was also thinking nostalgically, in her remote way, of previous times of protest from my protest times.  Rightfully in awe of the positive things that transpired, and like all passionate souls, enamoured with the music.  Her innocence and openess to something that just "felt right", made me think of myself many me's ago.  The me that was also young and burning inside with the fire of music, that truly made us all moths to a flame.  Music that made us feel like our own "nation within a nation".  With lyrics that bonded us eternally and siren's songs that made our hearts and minds soar....together.

So when this sincere young woman asked this question, it made me wonder ever since.  

Her question was.."Why are there no songs and singers for the Occupy Protests like there were then?"

A damned valid point...and a reminder ....that from the mouths of babes...we will hear the truth.

Which made me ask myself...where are the famous songwriters and why aren't they showing up?  

An obvious thought in context to the movement's message, would be that unfortunately, we have made them part of the 1%.  A totally negative attitude I admit; but a true statement in fact.  We have created millionaire and billionaire musicians with our support and liking of their music and downloads of unequaled proportions, thanks to technology.  They in turn give us more product in the form of concerts, where we can praise them in person, while still contributing to their financial rise.  In fairness, there have also always been true gifts of celebrity support for many causes.

So why not now?

Is there not a one out there who is translating their thoughts and emotions about the present day protests?  If so...won't you please show up?

There has never been a better time than now for all those heartfelt emotions to ring loud and honor the coming together of so many people who deserve an anthem...or several:)  The young woman who got me started on this was so right.  This movement, this phenomena of a gathering of righteous intent and personal sacrifice...deserves to hear the lovely music in their hearts and minds that will enliven and embolden them in the way I and my peers reveled, in owning a song that spoke what we all we're trying to say.  

I've been thinking of John Lennon all year; but especially this week while pondering this question.  Why wouldn't I?  If there was one artist who brought all the artists, protestors, revolutionaries of the 60's & 70's together as one....he was it.  O.K....I know this is common knowledge and ancient history....but honestly...has there been anyone since?  The real reason for this...was because he had the passion and bravery to not care what anyone else thought about his actions....as long as he felt it was the right thing to do.  Can we say the same for the present day musicians?...I'm not sure.

Here's a great video to champion what it looks like to be a real revolutionary visionary, using your best talents for the greater good.  Let it be a model of how to defend your passion and defy those that call you just a dreamer.  His dreams came true...and so did ours... because he cared enough to help us dream and showed us how to stand brave and with a love for mankind above all.  The beginning prophetic moments of this video are chilling...the rest is just pure John Lennon.

So now that I've opened this topic and hopefully helped my young tweeter friend realize her dream....

I hope that it will spread a ground swell of asking the same question.

Where is our music for this protest?

"Direct Message To Occupy Wall Street/Anywhere Protestors"

First of all, let me preface by saying that I in no way consider myself an expert on the subject of prostesting.  Although I do have experience in this area, that regardless of the context of position, does bear relevance overall.  As much as any faction that finds a cause and purpose in advertising their cause, and wishes to be successful in it's mission.  

It's been more than mere entertainment that has had me watching and listening to a group who has successfully built their numbers in record time.  I and everyone else who looks, cannot deny this whirlwind groundswell has gained momentum and deserves respect for the organizing skills thus far.  They in are in the public eye and have been, by shrewedly using techology in a most skilled way, even before people had time to really understand what they are standing up for.  Because, when ever before in history since this country's beginnings, have we seen those so brave as to boldly challenge not only hierachy of government; but more importantly heirachy of class?  Something that was not supposed to be in the most upwardly mobile society, that promised the ideal of aspiring individually to all it's citizens.  An ideal that supposedly still exists for parents to pass on to their descendants, even as our fairytale has now eroded and exposed the stark truth of reality.  A truth that can no longer be denied or silenced.

The people are angry and demand to be heard.  It's just that simple.

And so I found myself starting this week, watching the local Occupy Boston events that made national headlines for it's seeming throwback to the 60's & 70's protests.  Watching a determined group facing the local police municipality face to face and not afraid to be arrested for their convictions.  So now we were really arresting citizens for their bold actions and thereby choosing sides.  The Fox Network pundit I watched briefly, likened them to a "smelley, dirty, mob".  But in reality, everyone was questioning the scope of local authorities who had been called to bring order; but who looked more like the bullies.  Immediately the movement became a victim, that represented all those who already felt victimized by the establishment.  The exact flavor of the people we were watching being led off to jail, was in fact not so dificult to discern.  Maybe they were in fact just like us or the us who is mostly living one paycheck away from disaster everywhere.  All of a sudden the morning news shows were scrutinizing a little closer, what had seem so far removed not so long ago.  But it wasn't just because they broke headlines with their arrests; but more the common realization that they were growing in numbers...and they would not go away quietly in time soon.  The first hurdles of organization had been conquered amazingly quickly and seemingly building momentum every day.  HMMMM said the stuffed shirts and pundits... This may be a topic worth researching that has brought all these citizens together.  They don't look like the most recent sign wavers of the "Tea Party", and they don't seem to claim allegiance to any particular politial group.  What is it driving this undenable force?  Not just a band of a few sporadic loud and angry rants.  They lived up to their promise to "Occupy" and that's what they did.  People of a wide age range and demographics socially; who feel they have a message that transcends any previous boundaries.  We don't live in a Feudal System afterall....or do we?

Story after story came out this week with everyone's take on their mission to expose the injustices of a minority ruling class.  Obvious attention being paid to the disparities between those who literally rule us financially, and who let so many drown while they moved onto higher ground.  Experts were now looking more closely at the actual statistics that have been somewhat hidden from view for so long.  The elite and rich do not like their bankbooks laid wide open for all to see.  With the government more likely to support this as well, rather than admit the actual numbers for those who caused more immediate destruction of a multi-class society than ever before.  We might have heard a few figures here and there regarding their oppulent lifestyles and un-maginable bonuses in the face of such catastrophe.  We were being sold on the idea that to not save them, would mean that we could not save ourselves.  Till the pain that was mounting from the growing numbers of unemployed and homeless, could also not be and would not be denied any longer.  And who better to champion this cause than the youth who could no longer see their future any better.  College graduates who found themselves unable to not only surpass their parent's dreams; let alone just support themselves beyond having to stay in the family home.  The power of youth is their abundant energy.  The power of this group was also their educations paid for dearly and with many sacrifices.  Business majors who had studied economics and understood intimately the game that was being played out at their expense.  When the lights came on and there could be no more distractions, an angry mob was formed.  People who suddenly saw themselves more closely related to war veterans and impoverished citizens who had been robbed of their futures as well.  The dynamics of finding a common bond were from then on inevitable.  

So this was how I found myself and most of the world, in awe this weekend of sympathy for this cause that was now being played out globally.  Played out on "livestream" so as to be easily accessed by anyone who wished to watch, even if the mainstream networks chose not to give them coverage.  Using this "in your face" technology to also insure their protection if needed, should confrontation happen again as it had here in Boston in the cloak of darkness...and in the middle of the night.  A ploy that cannot be denied as prudent and in an arena that the young, techno savvy organizers had taken from earlier times.  As the chant "The Whole World Is Watching" served it's purpose again.  No police, mayor or govenor wanted to be subjected to villain status, let alone any liabilities beyond.  Inspiring enough, that the governor of Massachusets came out himelf in his "casual" attire yesterday, to meet and get to know just who these "citizens" were.  As now the tide has shifted and one side of the political establisment, recognized the inherent power of a group who was being so dismissed by their opponents.  Better to align with the masses, than to become the object of their rants.  The one language all politicians speak is votes, and this is the language of the bargain that will eventually be struck.  There could be no better time for a cause and momentum than an election year; but I think this is still a catalyst this group is failing to use to their advantage.

So here finally is my proposal to all those who wish the "Occupy Movement" to truly honor it's history making moments.  After watching the live scenes playing out in New York till the wee hours this morning; I had an epiphany of sorts in my renewed revolutionary mind.  The one weak moment in the astounding turnout of demonstrators in New York, who so well presented a mostly calm and peaceful posture, was a few fringe elements who took to the streets with obviously more testosterone driven moments.  Mindless displays of overturning random cars and wreaking havoc, that could unfortunately dilute all the good things that had been so hard earned by those that were earnest in their contributions.  The message could be sabotaged so easily by a random few, and the sadness in the realization was torturing all those who were aspiring to achieve a higher platform.  

We had our moments to learn this phenomena as well in the 70's; but we also had cooler heads who used those lessons and refused to be manipulated to defeat.  This is what I was speaking of in my last post when looking for the maturity to rise in this present day protest.  You have to know your enemy to know how to play their game to your advantage.  Embarassing politicians and people in high places is not enough.  You have to find that weak spot in their very core, and hit it with all you've got.

That is why I would propose to this present day gathering of valiant souls to recognize their  power beyond the technological trickery.  The leap to take this all to the next level lies really in using that leverage of an election year to it's fullest advantage.  A definite and monumental shift to achieve this, that would also eliminate questionable new legions; would be to simply make it mandatory to be registered to vote, in order to march.  What better way to take a direct hit to the powers that be?  Confronting them not only with growing numbers who are organizing more and more by the second thanks to the internet; but also actually showing the growing numbers of voters who comprise their legion.  A representation of playing on a more level battleground for it's implied repercussions if nothing else.  Not everyone has to vote if they choose not to; but just the fact that they made the effort to make their voices valid in their country's recognized system.  Then you would see some shaking in the shoes and inevtiably more desire to listen, bargain, and quelch that which could mean their demise.  Just as the governor of the "great state of Massachusets" chose in his open moment to meet "the people"; I predict more would follow.  Forcing the hand of power by their numbers is not enough.  Hitting them where it hurts and playing their game right back at them....now that's the foresight and ingenuity that we all rallied behind that led to our success so long ago.  Violence breeds violence and leaves a bloody stain on the message and the messengers.  True brilliance is realizing your assets and your opponents weaknesses and bringing them to their knees by using their own weapons to conquer and defeat.

It's a simple plan, as simple as the age old "David & Goliath" story.  If you try and battle an enemy who lays in wait for your weakness, without thinking beyond the confines of their domain; you will never understand how to challenge them to a battle that is by your design...not theirs.

Let those in power and high places literally have to see a true demonstration of Democracy.  It's no longer enough to chant that you are what Democracy looks like; if you don't come equipped to play the game.  

It's so simple it's shocking.  It's so a part of who we are supposed to be that has been lost; why shouldn't it be the way we win back our claim to our voice.  Voters can make a difference still...I dare you to now organize this most American principle and give it back the meaning it deserves.  

Afterall, is there a better basic platform than truly exercising our constitutional rights?  If you know of a better game in our present day world....let me know.  You do still have the power to decide your representation and now you have the numbers to make your own.  Cultivate new leaders with this platform and then empower the ones you choose.  We really don't have to just sit back and accept candidates chosen by those with more money than desire for our futures.  The power is still in the vote and they know it.  It's just that they've been able to succeed with every one of us who doesn't exercise it for whatever reason.  This is the real wake up call.  This is how we can truly take back our country.

More time and money has been spent on making voters feel their vote doesn't count in the last 20 years, than any of us will every know.  When the answer was really there all along.

Thank you "Occupy" protestors everywhere for making the first giant step to just do something.  Now show us all how to take it all the way home.

"There are three kinds of lies, lies, damned lies, and statistics" Benjamin Disrali

Here's a great e-book download on relying on statistics to shape our thinking.

Here's the link...it's worth a look;)

http://ebookee.org/Damned-Lies-and-Statistics-Untangling-Numbers-from-the-Media-Politicians-and-Activists_121078.html

Dissidents & Demagogues....And All The Rest Of Us In-between

Hello again!  Welcome back to my little soap box on the world and all that passes before me:)

My apologies for my absence in case you were wondering what had become of me.  Starting my life again after 3 months of recovering from a motor vehicle accident was more than a little consuming.  Having returned to my schedule and responsibilities with the minimum amount of time required for a broken ankle, has proven to be a journey of more stamina than even I had imagined.  Determined as I am always to not be taken down easily; I'm proud to say I've conquered all the physical and mental hurdles triumphantly.  Blending into the stream of life again and without holding up a sign to show the pain, did leave me vulnerable to all the usual abuses I'm supposed to succumb to in my daily routine.  A routine by choice that includes using mass transportation to trek to my job along with all my fellow lemmings.  Packed tightly into ever increasing masses who choose to not drive and therefore save money from increasing gas prices and the exorbitant parking prices for living in the concrete jungle of Boston.  There couldn't be a better display of the human phenomena, than throwing so many cultures and classes together in a crowded experience called the subway.  You either accept it with all it's obvious limitations for individuality and individual space, or stay tortured and tormented and screaming on the inside....till sometimes the screams just have to come out.  Not so unlike our present society who has taken and taken till you think you can take no more...only to be knocked down again and coming up fighting to save what's left of your life.  That's one way to look at the latest revolutionaries who now take to the streets under the name "Occupy______" (insert your city).

This group found it's way to my home most recently and with a presence that would not be denied.  A presence that kept it's oath to peaceful assembly above all for as long as it could, till being pushed to defend their position became more important than showing the rest of the world how to speak out and speak up.

The new dissidents of a revolution of people who would not take their fate being governed by demagogues who no longer seemed to see them or care.  If you look up the dictionary meaning of demagogue it is one who is described as:

"a person, especially an orator or political leader, who gains power and popularity by arousing the emotions, passions, and prejudices of the people."

{also known in (ancient times) as a leader of the people}

Demagogy (/ˈdɛməɡɒdʒi/^[1]) or demagoguery (/ˈdɛməɡɒɡəri/^[2]) (Ancient Greek: δημαγωγία, from δῆμος dēmos "people" and ἄγειν agein "to lead") is a strategy for gaining political power by appealing to the prejudices, emotions, fears, vanities and expectations of the public—typically via impassioned rhetoric and propaganda, and often using nationalist, populist or religious themes

Now that we've identified one half of my subject line, onto the the other half.  I like this particular Thesaurus version, as it encapsulates the wide variety of those under this description.

ThesaurusLegend:  Synonyms Related Words Antonyms

Noun	1.	dissident - a person who dissents from some established policy dissenter, objector, protester, contestant individual, mortal, person, somebody, someone, soul - a human being; "there was too much for one person to do" conscientious objector, CO - one who refuses to serve in the armed forces on grounds of conscience recusant, nonconformist - someone who refuses to conform to established standards of conduct political dissident - a dissenter from political orthodoxy NIMBY - someone who objects to siting something in their own neighborhood but does not object to it being sited elsewhere; an acronym for not in my backyard
Adj.	1.	dissident - characterized by departure from accepted beliefs or standards heretical, heterodox unorthodox - breaking with convention or tradition; "an unorthodox lifestyle"
	2.	dissident - disagreeing, especially with a majority dissenting, dissentient negative - expressing or consisting of a negation or refusal or denial

Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2008 Princeton University, Farlex Inc.

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dissident

noun

protester, rebel, dissenter, demonstrator, agitator, recusant, protest marcher political dissidents

adjective

dissenting, disagreeing, nonconformist, heterodox, schismatic, dissentient links with a dissident group

Collins Thesaurus of the English Language – Complete and Unabridged 2nd Edition. 2002 © HarperCollins Publishers 1995, 2002

For those in my age category this is not a new phemomena only new players.  Yes I was a dissident during the Viet Nam War days and proud of it to this day.  When my generation realized the power in their numbers, the result was a revolution of ideas and deeds for the cause of saving lives.  The same can be said for our present day counterparts, as they fight the noble cause for the dying middle class.  When youth is inspired and ignited....there is no enemy too big.  A big difference with the new rebels, is that they were raised to believe they truly lived in a golden age and a time more sane than their predecessors in the turbulent 60's & 70's.  A veil of safety that today has proven to them as it did to us, is just that...a flimsy and idealistic attitude that cannot and should not be counted on....especially when you threaten those purveyors of the fairytale who also will not let their convictions be tread on.

The irony in all this, is that I've been predicting for some time that revolution was an inevitable part of our destiny here at home, as we sat comfortably watching everyone else's plight from afar.  Especially in the age of immediate information that fuels such passion more quickly than ever.  We thought we were the masters of organization just getting our message out literally on the streets and with a pandemonium of phone calls to solicit more numbers for our cause.  Now we can all watch live streaming video of events as they play out, and the eons of twitter comments simultaneously banding the masses together....second by second.  The new younger generation of dissidents is not without ammunition of proportions that we never dreamed of.  But is it as productive by it's flaming speed or only enflaming?

I personally witnessed a group of anti-war demonstrators on the streets of Boston while doing some downtown shopping last week.  I can't deny I was all smiles and wanted badly to raise my fist in the air in comraderie...or at least a peace sign of silent appreciation for their efforts.  It was a band of people made up of many who advertised they were Afghanistan veterans.  A group who has earned their right to voice their opinions with the most extreme sacrifices and personal committment to their country.  As I flashed my peace sign and we exchanged smiles of common knowledge; we were all feeling more American for it and rightly so.  

Back to the demagogues.....

Those who also empassion certain masses to facilitate their missions and ambitions.  Who prey on those feeling at the bottom of the food chain who need someone else they can take out their frustrations on...who must be worse than they are.  Hence the resurgance of all kinds of prejudice and the ugliest side of human nature trying to survive.  Politicians who speak "demagogery" to incite voters to fall in line with what they sell as "mainstream".  The problem being, there is no "mainstream" any longer.  There is no majority of white bread vs. dark shades of brown and black...let alone the vast sea of yellow any longer.  We truly are a multi-culture, multi-colored world....as it was designed to be.  The days of the United States being the only representation of the future is over.  The kids know it....they embraced it watching Sesame Street long ago.  Only those trying to live in the past and those committed to personal greed would disagree.  So why wouldn't our most educated and empassioned youth fight this ideal?  Only a hypocrit would stand up and try and sell a world so limited as to not encompass all who inhabit it these days.  But stand up they do and also ignite all the ignorance that would keep us from growing to our full potential.  So why wouldn't we ask what their real motives must be?  If they are not for all of us....who are they for?

And so we have the war of class and knowledge we find ourselves in today.  After watching the deliberate intentions of politicians to forfeit us all for political and private motives play out now for months...and actually years......Were they not in effect giving the call to all those who would finally be brave enough to challenge the agenda and champion a rebuttal?  Of course they were....they just thought we were too dumbed down and stunned to react, or too miserable dealing with our own fates to take action.  Even as they orchestrated the whole process of revolution and new dynasties in the Middle East this Spring.  Is there anyone left who now doesn't believe the dissidents on the other side of our world were not manipulated to re-invent a new course of chaos.....that we could as always show up to "bring order" to and therefore look like the freedom merchants from the land of all freedoms.  The old ancient Rothschild game that's been around forever is still being sold to us.  But don't expect the young empassioned leaders of our present day revolution to buy it....as like us....they have no appetite for ancient stereotypes who have lived too long on their laurels.  Only to leave us hanging by a thread when the day is done and we have no jobs or homes to go to any longer....no matter all their amount of "fixing" things as the annointed and appointed governing body of a world that just keeps getting darker for most.

The dissidents, as powerfully united as they are however, are still juvenile in their stage of develpment.   They have unfortunately to yet discover just how manipulated they still are by the ones they call enemies of the state.  For all their noble actions and loud uprising they are missing the point....that could be the point of no return.  The maturity of rebellion teaches you after you fall down enough times...or are pushed down as it would be here in Boston presently....that the very act of war is knowing your enemy intimately...so as to not be baited to become the enemy yourself.  A powerul piece in the New York Times today was analyzing this very catalyst.  That in order for the dissidents to earn respect and dignify themselves, they must in fact choose their  battles.  That it isn't enough to just build the abyss that is growing between classes these days by pointing fingers continually at the "elite" that is characterized as the villain responsible for all our woes.  Not that there isn't more reason to want to believe this than any other time in their lifetime; but it's just not that simple....and it leaves them open to be challenged as invalid for not having a clearer statement.  Exactly the kind of thing the demagogues can attack and solicit more to their side as they make the dissidents look like the problem and not themselves.  

Am I glad there are those taking to the streets and voicing for all those frustrated who deserve to be heard?  I'm not just glad .... I'm elated!  If we didn't cry out now for all the injustices all around us....we would be accepting distinction as the society of a country founded on principles that were meant to save us from tyranny.  Now the hard part is upon us....how do we grow into our new found voice?

One of my favorite findings today was this story titled: "Top 5 Reasons Why the Occupy Wall Street Protests Embody Values Of The Real Boston Tea Party"   here's the link

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2011/10/03/333925/top-5-reasons-why-the-occupy-wall-street-protests-embody-values-of-the-real-boston-tea-party/

If you want a birds eye view of some of the present day dissidents....people who are in reality your sons and daughters, your neighbors, and even the future leaders.....find a live stream like this one in one of many cities across our country today.

http://occupywallst.org/

Ignorance is no longer blissful....it's just unacceptable.